I recently bought a new house, the past owners had a tree swing on the property. Its hanging from a very large maple which I had pruned and some limbs removed from. They at some point cut the limb the swing is on because it was growing into the house. The limb has since sprouted new lif at its end. So I know its alive. But I dont know if it should be trusted as it was cut at some point. Its the only branch in the yard that works for a swing however. I was wondering if anyone had ever created a saftey line in case the branch breaks. I could attach the limb to the trunk above the rope etc. Right now I wont let my son on it. But would like to use the branch if possible.

Thanks!

chrisn

06-04-2012 05:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steveinCT
(Post 936216)

I recently bought a new house, the past owners had a tree swing on the property. Its hanging from a very large maple which I had pruned and some limbs removed from. They at some point cut the limb the swing is on because it was growing into the house. The limb has since sprouted new lif at its end. So I know its alive. But I dont know if it should be trusted as it was cut at some point. Its the only branch in the yard that works for a swing however. I was wondering if anyone had ever created a saftey line in case the branch breaks. I could attach the limb to the trunk above the rope etc. Right now I wont let my son on it. But would like to use the branch if possible.

Thanks!

If all that was cut was the part growing into the house, it is fine.

user1007

06-04-2012 08:59 PM

I agree. That swing may be there when your son has kids. I have fond memories of a swing at one of the parsonages my grandparents lived in.

While you are at it I would check whatever system was used to hang the swing though to make sure the rope, chain, or whatever is intact. It may have grown into the branch and become compromised.

ratherbefishing

06-05-2012 06:48 PM

Stand on the swing and jump on it yourself. I'd guess that you are heavier than your son.
This is known as a dynamic, or performance, test. ;^)

Yoyizit

06-05-2012 08:34 PM

For personal safety a Safety Factor of 10 and up is supposed to be used. Load the swing gradually with 10x the weight of your son.
The minimum industry-wide safety factor is 4, like for hanging pictures on drywall or studs.